Church Food Banks and Community Perception and Growth

Executive summary

Church-run food banks and community pantries have become one of the most visible intersections between congregational mission and community need. Nearly 48% of U.S. congregations run or support food programs, and demand has surged dramatically—food pantry use rose from 4.4% of U.S. households in 2019 to 6.7% in 2020, with 53 million people receiving charitable food assistance in 2021. These programs powerfully position churches as community assets, generating positive local perception, volunteer...